"All-Star Session" is a vibrant and dynamic jazz album by the legendary Coleman Hawkins, released on April 16, 1979, under the Audio Fidelity label. This 39-minute journey through the realms of bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop showcases Hawkins' mastery of the tenor saxophone, backed by an all-star ensemble including Walker Thomas, Ben Webster, Jonah Jones, Milt Hinton, Cozy Cole, and Billy Taylor.
The album opens with "Broke But Happy," setting the tone for a collection that is as spirited as it is skillful. Tracks like "Jumpin' With Judy" and "Back Talk" highlight the energetic interplay between the musicians, while "For Lovers Only" and "Peachtree Street Blues" offer moments of tender introspection. The album's title track, "All-Star Session," is a testament to the collaborative brilliance of the session, with each musician contributing their unique voice to the collective sound.
"Blues On The Bayou" and "Blues On The Delta" pay homage to the blues roots of jazz, with Hawkins' rich, resonant saxophone leading the charge. The album closes with "Black Maria's Blues," leaving the listener with a lasting impression of Hawkins' virtuosic playing and the ensemble's cohesive chemistry.
"All-Star Session" is a celebration of jazz in its purest form, capturing the essence of a live performance and the magic that happens when great musicians come together. It's a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast, offering a glimpse into the world of one of the genre's most influential figures.
This LP was released in 1982.
